Barone Ricasoli, Casalferro, 2004: Almost as tempting as the renowned 1997 wine. Dark garnet, full-bodied, with soft tannins integrating beautifully and showing a generously spicy personality. On the nose and palate blackberries and black currants along with notes of chocolate and minerals coming in on the long, mouth-filling finish. Best 2009-2015. Score 93. (Tasted twice with consistent notes 15 and 18 Apr 2007)

Fattoria dei Barbi, Brunello di Montalcino, 2001: Dark ruby towards garnet, on first attack you might be tempted to say medium-bodied and with too firm tannins but given a few minutes in the glass the wine blossoms. Full-bodied, with tannins that seem to melt in the mouth to take on a gently mouth-coating nature and revealing generous blackberries, blueberries and cassis. Approachable now but best only from 2008 and then cellaring comfortably until 2014, perhaps longer. Score 91. (Tasted twice with consistent notes, 11 Apr 2005)

Fattoria dei Barbi, Brunello di Montalcino, 2002: A major disappointment from Barbi, a wine that reflects every possible problem of a poor vintage year. Almost watery garnet in color, with flabby tannins and far too acidic showing a too-deep earthy-mushroom note that tends to hide whatever fruits may be lurking here. Drink now if at all. Score 74. (Tasted three times with consistent notes 11 and 12 Apr 2005)

Interesting... the Casalferro ('01and even the '00) and the Brolio are still sold widely, [although I saw the Casalferro on retail, at least....] and without any mention [at least I failed to see] that they may be "over the hill". well, that's an old issue, the honesty that you wish for, within the right will to sell etc.

anyway, I'm attending to taste the wines during the week, then I'll be smarter.